Malaysian motorists will soon have a stronger safeguard against counterfeit engine oils following the launch of SIRIM 58 Standard – Certification Scheme for Genuine Products (Engine Oil for Motor Vehicles) by Sirim QAS International Sdn Bhd.
The new certification scheme aims to tackle the growing problem of fake engine oils, which have become increasingly difficult to identify as counterfeiters now produce highly convincing packaging that closely resembles genuine products.
According to Sirim QAS International, using counterfeit engine oil can lead to serious vehicle problems, including reduced engine performance, higher fuel consumption and premature engine wear, potentially resulting in costly repairs.
Sirim QAS International Industrial, Consumer Certification and Inspection Section 2 head Hasnol Zakaria said the certification scheme provides consumers with a reliable way to verify the authenticity of engine oil before using it.
“Although counterfeit engine oil may be cheaper to buy, it can lead to much higher repair and maintenance costs in the long run. This certification scheme gives consumers a trusted and convenient way to confirm a product is genuine,” he said.
Beyond affecting individual motorists, counterfeit engine oils also harm the wider automotive industry, impacting legitimate manufacturers, distributors, retailers, workshops, service centres and commercial fleet operators.
The initiative supports the government’s efforts to combat counterfeit products following the introduction of the Trade Descriptions (Certification and Marking of Engine Oil for Motor Vehicle) Order 2024. Under the order, Sirim QAS International has been appointed as the competent authority to oversee product certification.
The certification scheme features the SIRIM Conformity Label, which incorporates advanced digital security technology designed to prevent duplication or cloning by counterfeiters.
Consumers can verify the authenticity of certified engine oils by scanning the SIRIM Conformity Label using the MySIRIM mobile application, available on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store and Huawei AppGallery. The app instantly confirms whether a product is genuine and displays product details that can be matched with the packaging.
Sirim said it will continue conducting product assessments, traceability checks, surveillance and compliance monitoring to ensure certified brands meet national standards.
The agency also urged motorists to purchase engine oil only from authorised dealers and reputable retailers, check for the SIRIM Conformity Label, and verify every product through the MySIRIM app before making a purchase.
It said stronger cooperation between regulators, manufacturers, distributors, workshops and consumers is essential to curb the spread of counterfeit engine oils and protect both motorists and legitimate businesses.
